Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) — Chapter 6

Instead of a friend become not an enemy to thy neighbour; for an evil man shall inherit reproach and shame, and every sinner that is envious and double-tongued. Detraction of a friend makes one an enemy. Lapide teaches that the slanderous man inherits reproach and shame as his just portion—the very evil he causes returns upon himself.

A sweet word multiplieth friends and appeaseth enemies; and a gracious tongue in a good man aboundeth. The power of kind speech: a gracious word multiplies friends and softens enemies. Lapide cites Chrysostom and Ambrose on the social and spiritual benefits of gentle, charitable speech.

Let those that are at peace with thee be many, but one in a thousand thy counsellor. Broad acquaintance but narrow counsel: many peaceful associates but only one truly trusted counselor in a thousand. Lapide treats this as a prudential principle of social wisdom.

When thou wouldst get a friend, try him before thou takest him, and do not credit him easily. The trial of friendship before commitment: do not trust hastily; test first in adversity. Lapide quotes various classical and patristic authorities on the prudent testing of friendships before full confidence is given.

A faithful friend is a strong defence; and he that hath found him, hath found a treasure. The faithful friend is compared to a strong fortress and a precious treasure. Lapide expounds this as one of Scripture's highest praises: such a friend defends, assists, and enriches the soul.

A faithful friend is the medicine of life and immortality; and they that fear the Lord shall find him. Faithful friendship is compared to the medicine of life and immortality—spiritual benefit beyond material advantage. Lapide notes that finding such a friend is itself a grace from God reserved for those who fear Him.

Son, from thy youth up receive instruction, and even to thy grey hairs thou shalt find wisdom. The pursuit of wisdom must begin in youth and persist through old age. Lapide cites Plato, Aristotle, and the examples of Timothy (2 Tim. 3:15) and other learned saints who imbibed wisdom from earliest childhood.

Come to her as one that plougheth and soweth, and wait for her good fruits. The pursuit of wisdom requires the farmer's labor and patience. Lapide draws out the agricultural metaphor: plowing (breaking oneself of bad habits), sowing (study and meditation), and patient waiting for the harvest of wisdom.

Hearken, my son, and receive my counsel; and refuse not my advice. The section on wisdom closes with a direct personal appeal. Lapide treats this as Siracides speaking with apostolic authority, inviting the disciple to receive the full burden of wisdom's discipline.

Bow down thy shoulder, and bear her, and be not grieved with her bands. The yoke of wisdom must be accepted willingly. Lapide interprets the \"chains\" and \"fetters\" of wisdom as her disciplines—mortification, prayer, study—which initially feel burdensome but become sweet through habit.

Stand in the multitude of ancients that are wise, and join thyself from thy heart to their wisdom; that thou mayst hear every discourse of God and the sayings of praise may not escape thee. Standing with the wise elders and attending to their words is the practical school of wisdom. Lapide applies this to frequenting the company of saints, learned theologians, and experienced spiritual directors.